A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India seeking directions to declare forced or deceitful religious conversion as a “terrorist act,” following allegations at the Nashik office of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The petition, submitted by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay on April 16, 2026, argues that fraudulent religious conversions pose a serious threat to the nation’s sovereignty, secular fabric, and social harmony. It further contends that such acts undermine fraternity, dignity, and national integration, warranting stringent legal measures. The plea comes in the backdrop of allegations made by eight female employees at TCS’ Nashik office, who accused a colleague of sexual harassment along with attempts at forced religious conversion. The incident has raised concerns over workplace safety and the misuse of influence in professional environments. The petition urges the apex court to direct the Centre and states to take strict steps to curb coercive or deceitful religious conversions and consider classifying such acts under anti-terror laws. At present, issues related to forced conversion are addressed under existing criminal laws and specific state legislations. The Supreme Court is yet to decide whether to admit the petition. If accepted, the case could open a wider legal debate on the scope of anti-terror laws and the regulation of religious conversions in India.
